about to change the vct solenoid on my 5.4... its a 2009 navigator.

I have read you have to take off valve cover, but i also read you can do it without removing. seems to be a quick job if you don't have to.
I ordered new seals and vct solenoid.

can someone tell me if it is required to remove the valve cover or can you pry and destroy the seal getting it out and just replace the seal and vct solenoid?

thanks!!

 

dang, anybody have any ideas?

 

check out youtube. I've seen some vids there for it

 

Ok, just in case anybody is wondering, valve covers did have to come off... pretty easy job on the 2009 model.

Replaced the vct solenoid and completely fixed my issues. Truck was at idle speeds occasionally running rough and sounding like a diesel truck.. smooth and no issues now.
also, fuel mileage increased a couple MPG as well. best $45 dollars i have spent fixing an issue like this!

 

Other than the rough idle and noise, did anything else lead you to a diagnosis that the VCT solenoid needed to be replaced? Just wondering for future reference. My wife's Expedition sometimes idles a little rough.

Thanks,
Mark

 

It always since we bought it seemed to have what i called lifter noise. But this rough idle was not consistent.. i couldn't make it do it. happened on occasion only. Only when pulling up to a stop then would sound like engine is about to grenade... could give it some gas and would completely stop and run normal again. The lifter or injector noise seems less noticeable too.
Visually i didnt see much wrong with them. one had a screen that looked a little torn up..
other than this i switched to sythetic oil and did a filter change.